READING’S children’s services provider has taken first place in a prestigious national awards for its children in care council.
Brighter Futures for Children (BFfC) was top of the shortlist for the A National Voice Awards, beating out 14 other providers for their young members’ council.
Care2Listen is BffC’s council, made up of young people in care aged between 12 and 17, and ensures that the workforce at the provider is “child-focused,” considers how its practises impact the lives of young people, and promotes participation for those in care.
The award recognises the group’s hard work in establishing a safe space for young people to share their views and work on projects which matter to them.
A National Voice Award is designed to recognise the work of children in care councils and care leaver forums.
Groups are nominated across a range of categories, before Coram Voice and A National Voice shortlist and judge the entries.
Care2Listen is organised by Brighter Future for Children’s participation officer, Emma Cheek, who also runs groups for care ambassadors as well as social groups for young people in care.
It’s work includes updates to BffC’s promise to those in care, and is in the process of running two celebration events for young people.
After being impressed by the group’s achievements, she put them forward for the award, and they were chosen as the winners of the participation category at the A National Voice Awards event on Wednesday, October 25.
The event is lead by Coram Voice, a children’s rights organisation which advocates for young people’s voices to be heard in important decisions which affect them.
Di Smith, Brighter Futures for Children’s Board Chair said: “We are absolutely delighted to see Care2Listen’s incredible work recognised on the national stage.
“Our amazing group of young people really want to make a difference and this is clear to see in all the hard work they have put in.
“I have no doubt they will continue to impress and make a significant difference for many children and young people in care.”
More information about Brighter Futures for Children’s services is available via: http://www.brighterfuturesforchildren.org/
